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10 Top Tourist Destinations in India

By Anusha

It is World Tourism Day and India is one of the highly favored destinations for travel across the world. The vast lands with the interesting amalgamation of culture, history and religious influences make India an interesting country to explore. Travellers coming here can explore everything from natural abundance, wildlife sanctuaries to historical monuments and ancient temples.


In fact many remote regions of India have come into the spotlight among domestic travellers after the attention they have received from the global community. So, here is a look at why global travellers prefer to come to India and the destinations that keep them returning for more! Here is a list of the top 10 destinations in India that attract international travellers.

1. Maharashtra

The state is most popular for the experience it provides in the monsoon season, when the entire region comes alive with lush greenery. The hill stations, valleys, beaches and many historical monuments located across the state attract tourists from the world over. Major cities such as Mumbai and Pune also see tourist crowds. Famous hill stations include Mahabaleshwar, Lonavla, beaches such as Murud and other attractions such as the Kaas Plateau of flowers that has been slowly gaining prominence. The state has plenty to offer avid travellers and is great for a road trip as well!

Photo Courtesy: Dhinal Chheda

2. Tamil Nadu

In many ways the cultural capital of southern India, Tamil Nadu has much to offer travellers who appreciate art and heritage tourism. The many cities and towns of Tamil Nadu offer a multitude of ancient temples, historic monuments and scenic beauty. Experiencing the state in winters is recommended to escape the summer temperatures. Foreigners coming to this part of the country are delighted by the cultural performances, expressions of various arts and of course the famous Kanchipuram silk sarees. Another aspect of the state that has received global recognition is the lip smacking food ranging from masala dosas to the Chettinad delicacies.

Photo Courtesy: Vinoth Chandar

3. Delhi

The capital city of the country is an obvious starting point for travel in the country for many international travellers. The state provides a gateway to major tourist destinations in northern India. The capital city itself has many historical monuments and landmarks to be enjoyed. Destinations such as Agra that are located at short distances from the city attract many tourists, especially those wanting to catch a glimpse of the iconic Taj Mahal.

Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers

4. Uttar Pradesh

An amalgamation of spirituality, natural beauty and arts is found in the beautiful state of Uttar Pradesh. The river Ganges has received much adulation and admiration from travellers across the world. Starting from religious activities in Varanasi to appreciating art and history in the city of Lucknow, the state has much to offer. Travellers visiting this part of the country are awed by the fervor of spirituality that is evident along with religious harmony. Nawabi cuisine is also a popular choice for people travelling here.

Photo Courtesy: Jai Kapoor

5. Rajasthan

International travellers pick Rajasthan as a popular destination for travel for its sheer uniqueness. Not only is it set in the magnificent Thar Desert but it also has one of the most vivid and colourful cultures in India. The many popular cities such as Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, etc have many attractions ranging from royal palaces to forts. The state provides some of the best options for heritage stays, with many palaces being converted to hotels. It is also the destination for many weddings. The art and cultural extravaganzas organised in the state get much attention from the international community.

Photo Courtesy: Girish Suryawanshi

6. West Bengal

The state has many attractions ranging from the mangrove forests of Sundarbans, where travellers seek the elusive Bengal Tiger to Kolkata a city best witnessed during the festive season of Durga Puja. The state also has popular hill stations such as Darjeeling that has the charming toy train attracting many tourists even today! The state is popular for its street food options and a variety of sweets.

Photo Courtesy: Srijan Kundu

7. Bihar

The state located in the eastern part of the country is said to be among the oldest inhabited regions in the world, with a history of over 3,000 years! Home to many monuments and sites of historical importance, the state receives large influx of international travellers every year. Pilgrimage sites such as Bodh Gaya, educational sites such as Nalanda, ancient sites such as Pataliputra attract travellers in large numbers. Attractions such as the Mahabodhi Temple are listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country and modern constructions such as the Mahatma Gandhi Setu Bridge is among the longest in the world.

Photo Courtesy: Andrew Moore

8. Kerala

The natural abundance, mesmerizing beauty, interesting cultures and charming vistas have earned this beautiful state in India the tag of 'God's Own Country'. It lives up to the name with the many attractions ranging from scenic backwaters to exquisite temples. Kerala has much to see for the nature lover, lakes, rivers, forests and mountains in the region provide an unforgettable experience. Cities such as Cochin also provide interesting travel opportunities. The coastal state has many beautiful beaches. Stay options such as floating cottages and houseboats are experiences sought out by many international tourists. The experience of Ayurvedic massages are also a major crowd puller.

Photo Courtesy: Mehul Antani


9. Goa

The beach destination of Goa is considered among the best in the world and attracts many foreign tourists. The many pristine beaches of Goa are now regular hot spots for international travellers looking for a respite during the winters. The fun culture, combined with natural beauty and comforts of stay options make Goa a popular destination. After many years of prominent travel activities in the region, Goa still has many lesser explored beaches and attractions, thus making for an interesting journey even for returning travellers. Goa is also a popular party destination and has exciting night life options.

Photo Courtesy: Steve Hancocks

10. Himachal Pradesh

Popular for its stunning natural beauty, Himachal Pradesh in the lap of the Himalayas is a popular tourist destination for international travellers in India. Parts of the region that constitute the state are believed to have history dating back to the days of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The state has many rivers, hill stations and valleys. Cities such as Dharamsala are popular for spiritual reasons and regions such as Spiti Valley are popular adventure destinations.

Himachal Pradesh

Photo Courtesy: SilverBirch

Read more about: world tourism day
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